Marriage license Laws in the state of Michigan, here's what you need to know and what documents to
bring with you before you apply for a Eaton County marriage license. We recommend getting this legal aspect of your
wedding out of the way about a month before your ceremony date.

It is important that you verify all information with your local marriage license
office or county clerk before making any wedding or travel plans.

Getting Married in Eaton County?

Residency Requirement in Eaton County:

You do not have to be a resident of Eaton County, but the fee
is $10 more for non-residents.

Residents need to apply for their marriage license in the county in which one of them lives.
Non-residents need to apply for their marriage license in the county where they plan on getting
married.

Even though you apply for your marriage license in the county you live in, you can get married any
place in Michigan.

Previous Marriage:

You need to know the date (mm/dd/yy) and how the last marriage ended.
If it was within the last 6 months, you will need to bring proof of the divorce that can be left with
the Clerk.

ID Requirement in Eaton County:

Picture id such as Drivers License. You can also use Military ID,
DD 214, You must also have a certified copy of your birth certificates.

You will also need to know
your parents addresses, and your mothers' maiden names. Foreign birth certificates need to be
translated into English, and be notarized.

Covenant Marriage Option:

No.

Waiting Period:

There is a three (3) day waiting period in Eaton County. The waiting period
does not include the application day. The waiting period may be waived by the Eaton County Clerk for
"good and sufficient cause shown." The license is valid anywhere in the state for
thirty-three (33) days from the date of application.

Fees in Eaton County:

$20 if you are a
resident of Michigan. $30 for non-residents. Some counties may charge more. Bring cash. Most counties
do not accept checks.

Requirements and fees may vary as each county in Michigan could have their own
requirements.

Other Tests:

None.

Proxy Marriages:

No. However, only one of you need
to be present and have all required documentation when applying for a marriage license. You will need
to show a photocopy of the front and back of your partner's driver's license.

Cousin Marriages:

No.

Common Law Marriages:

No, unless entered into the relationship prior to January 1,
1957.

Same Sex Marriages:

No.

Under 18:

If you are 16 or 17 years old, you can get married with parental consent. Your
parents must appear with their own identification and if a custodial parent, proof of their custody. If
you are 15 or younger, you will need both parental consent and the approval of the probate court.

Secret Marriages:

Back in 1897, secret marriages were approved. If a couple requests a secret
marriage, if permitted by a judge, after the ceremony is solemnized, the officiant returns the
certificate, but the judge may seal the file and allow no publicity about the marriage.What Qualifies One for a Secret Marriage?

Witnesses:

Witnesses have to be at least 18 years of age. Some counties follow this new law more strictly than
others.

Officiants:

Marriages may be performed by federal, probate, district, and municipal judges,
and district court magistrates, in their court area; mayors, in their city; County clerks; ministers
and pastors of the gospel, both resident and non-resident. The Michigan Statutes also have a provision that allows for marriages to "be solemnized in
the manner heretofore used and practiced in their respective societies or denominations."